If you are looking for a snack that’s both delightfully sweet and satisfyingly crunchy, this Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Recipe is an absolute must-try. The perfect balance between salty pretzels and sugary cinnamon coating creates a treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re prepping for a party or craving a homemade sweet snack, these pretzel sticks deliver an irresistible flavor and a wonderful texture that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role, from the buttery coating that helps the cinnamon sugar stick, to the crisp pretzels that provide that signature crunch, and of course, the fragrant cinnamon that fills your kitchen with warmth.
- Thick pretzel sticks (12 ounces): Choose sturdy dipping sticks for the perfect crunchy base that holds up well to baking and coating.
- Butter (½ cup, melted and cooled slightly): Adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar adhere to the pretzels.
- Egg white: Gives a light glaze that enhances stickiness without overpowering the flavor.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Brings a subtle, sweet aroma that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Provides that essential sweetness that makes this snack truly indulgent.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon): The star spice that infuses these pretzels with cozy, warm flavor.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Butter
Start by preheating your oven to 350° Fahrenheit (175 degrees C). While it warms up, melt the butter gently in the microwave on medium/low power. Once melted, let it cool slightly to avoid cooking the egg white in the next step. This step ensures your coating mixture will be smooth and perfect.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg White and Vanilla
Separate the egg white from the yolk carefully, reserving the yolk for another use like an omelet or custard. Then, whisk the egg white together with the vanilla extract into the slightly cooled melted butter. This combination acts like a glue that makes sure every pretzel stick gets evenly coated and that the cinnamon sugar sticks well.
Step 3: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar
In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon thoroughly. This even mix creates the beautifully spiced sugar that will coat your pretzels and give them their signature look and flavor.
Step 4: Coat the Pretzels with Butter Mixture
Place your pretzel sticks inside a large zip-top bag. Pour the butter, egg white, and vanilla mixture over the pretzels, then seal the bag. Gently but thoroughly shake and mix to coat every stick evenly. This method is mess-free and gets maximum coverage!
Step 5: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
Now, pour the cinnamon sugar blend into the same bag with the butter-coated pretzels. Seal and gently shake again until all pretzels are fully covered in that sweet, spicy sugar. The tactile step of shaking your bag is oddly satisfying and ensures every bite has that perfect balance of sweet and salty.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Spread your coated pretzel sticks in an even layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. Halfway through baking, give them a stir to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. The warm oven caramelizes the sugar coating slightly for an addictive crisp texture.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, immediately stir the pretzels on the sheet to prevent clumping as they cool. Let them cool completely before serving—this step is crucial to getting that satisfying crunch and avoiding sticky fingers. Trust me, patience pays off here!
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Recipe
Garnishes
While these sticks are terrific on their own, a light dusting of extra cinnamon sugar right after baking can amp up the aroma and taste. You can also drizzle a bit of melted white chocolate or caramel for an extra special touch, transforming them into an elegant dessert snack.
Side Dishes
Pair these pretzel sticks with a creamy dip like vanilla yogurt, chocolate fondue, or even a luscious cream cheese frosting for dipping. The contrast between the crunchy, cinnamon-sugary exterior and a smooth dip creates an irresistible flavor and texture combo.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving these pretzel sticks in festive jars or mason jars tied with rustic twine for a charming gift option. For parties, stand them upright in colorful cups or small flower pots filled with decorative shredded paper to create a playful pretzel “bouquet” that doubles as décor and snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, no worries! Store the pretzel sticks in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain their crisp texture while keeping them fresh for several days.
Freezing
You can freeze these pretzels to extend their shelf life. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separated by parchment paper to avoid sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature—they’ll almost taste freshly made.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked warmth and crunch, pop the pretzels in a preheated oven at 300° Fahrenheit for 5 to 7 minutes. This gentle reheating refreshes their texture and flavor without burning the sugar coating.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pretzels in this recipe?
Absolutely! While thick dipping pretzel sticks work best for holding the coating and crunch, you can experiment with thinner sticks or even pretzel twists. Just keep in mind that baking time may vary slightly for different shapes and sizes.
Is it necessary to use egg white in the coating?
The egg white helps the butter and cinnamon sugar mixture stick better to the pretzels, creating a more even coating and crisp finish. If you prefer not to use egg white, you can try substituting with a bit of honey or a milk wash, but the texture might be slightly different.
Can I adjust the cinnamon and sugar amount?
Definitely! If you’re a cinnamon lover, feel free to increase the cinnamon slightly. Conversely, if you prefer a sweeter, less spiced treat, reduce the cinnamon to half a tablespoon or balance according to your taste buds.
Are these pretzel sticks suitable for gifting?
Yes! Their vibrant cinnamon sugar coating and simple packaging options make them wonderful homemade gifts. Just be sure to store them well to keep them fresh before gifting.
Can I make these gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of the Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Recipe, seek out gluten-free pretzel sticks available at many specialty grocery stores, and follow the same process. The end result will still be amazing, just tailor-made for gluten-free needs.
Final Thoughts
There is something so wonderfully comforting about homemade Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Recipe that you just can’t buy at a store. The combination of warm cinnamon, sweet sugar, and salty crunch is utterly addictive, and the process of making them is surprisingly fun. I truly hope you give this recipe a try soon and discover just how quickly it can become one of your favorite snacks to bake and share with friends and family.
Print
Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Sticks are a delightful sweet and crunchy snack featuring crunchy pretzel sticks coated in a buttery cinnamon sugar mixture and baked to perfection. This easy-to-make recipe offers a perfect blend of salty and sweet flavors, ideal for snacking or entertaining.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 bag (12 ounces) thick pretzel sticks (such as dipping sticks pretzels)
- ½ cup butter, melted and cooled slightly
- 1 egg white
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350° Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) to prepare for baking the pretzel sticks.
- Melt Butter: Place the butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl and melt it in the microwave on medium/low power. Let it cool slightly to avoid cooking the egg white in the next step.
- Prepare Egg White Mixture: Separate the egg white from the yolk, reserving the yolk for another use. Whisk the egg white and vanilla extract into the melted and slightly cooled butter until well combined. Set aside this butter mixture.
- Mix Cinnamon Sugar: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until evenly blended. Set aside.
- Coat Pretzels with Butter Mixture: Place the pretzel sticks in a one-gallon zip-top bag. Pour the butter, egg white, and vanilla mixture over the pretzels. Seal the bag and gently shake and mix to coat all pretzels evenly with the butter mixture.
- Add Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Pour the cinnamon sugar mixture into the bag with the butter-coated pretzels. Seal the bag again and gently but thoroughly shake to coat every pretzel stick evenly with the cinnamon sugar.
- Bake Pretzels: Spread the coated pretzels in an even layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, stirring once halfway through to ensure even baking and coating.
- Stir After Baking: Remove the baking sheet from the oven, immediately stir the pretzels to prevent them from sticking together while cooling.
- Cool Completely: Let the cinnamon sugar pretzel sticks cool completely before serving so they become crisp and the coatings set perfectly.
Notes
- Make sure the melted butter is cool enough before adding the egg white to avoid scrambling it.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of salt to the cinnamon sugar mixture if desired.
- Store cooled pretzel sticks in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunch.
- The reserved egg yolk can be used in other recipes such as custards or baking.
- Using parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
